contribute to a 403b or a roth ira

[MikeJones2001]

I am a firefighter making around 55k per year. Right now I contribute to my 403b as much as i can ($630) per month and i save a little bit each month ($300) in my roth ira. Would it be better to max out my Roth IRA and then just save a little in my 403 b , or should i stick to my current plan?

I have a Brokerage account right now with about 60k in it just in case I need some cash for emergencies or if i decide to buy a home. As of now i rent an apartment.

[MDM]

I am a firefighter making around 55k per year. Right now I contribute to my 403b as much as i can ($630) per month and i save a little bit each month ($300) in my roth ira. Would it be better to max out my Roth IRA and then just save a little in my 403 b , or should i stick to my current plan?

I have a Brokerage account right now with about 60k in it just in case I need some cash for emergencies or if i decide to buy a home. As of now i rent an apartment.

Assuming you file single, if $55K would be your AGI with no 403b or tIRA deductions, the first $3,375 of 403b or tIRA contributions would save 22% and any more would save 12%*.  Your call on how you expect your marginal rate when withdrawing from traditional accounts will compare to that 12%.  See Traditional versus Roth - Bogleheads for more.


*You could reach the first tier of the saver's credit, but it would take such a large total of traditional contributions that the marginal rate on that total would be only 13%.

[MikeJones2001]

i appreciate the response.

[terran]

Also consider whether you'll get a pension which might keep you in a high(er) tax bracket in retirement compared to now.